Las Vegas Mayor Proposes Age Limit and Metal Detectors for First Friday Reopening

A 15-year-old died in a shooting near Charleston and Main streets last month, prompting city leaders to pause the First Friday art walk while they implement new safety measures. The incident, which occurred during the monthly downtown Las Vegas festival, has led to a temporary halt in the event for the remainder of 2026.

Mayor Shelley Berkley stated that the city is prioritizing security before the festival returns. She described the goal as preventing groups from using the Arts District to display weapons. "First Friday is not an opportunity for gangs to roam around the Arts District and brandish weapons and kill each other," Berkley said. The city aims to have the event ready to restart in January 2027.

Local artists and business owners have expressed concern over the extended pause, citing the event's importance for their income. Tony Chavez, co-founder of the Arts District Action Coalition, noted that many participants rely on the monthly gathering to sustain their livelihoods. "I know so many artists that really depend on First Friday to make their income," Chavez said. He emphasized that the event serves as a critical period for these individuals to support their daily lives.

Berkley acknowledged the economic impact of the festival, describing it as a major asset for the city and the Arts District. She noted that hundreds of people typically attend to eat, drink, and spend money. While she expressed a desire to reopen the event immediately, she explained that coordinating with multiple partners and finalizing security plans requires time. "I would like it open tomorrow," Berkley said. "But, you know, there are several moving parts right now, and there are several partners."

Proposed changes for the reopening include stricter age limits and enhanced screening at entry points. Chavez suggested implementing an age limit and adding more metal detectors to control access. Berkley echoed this approach, stating that a minimum age of 18 should be required for entry. "But at very minimum, curfew, age. I have to be 18 to come in to First Friday," Berkley said. She added that the city is discussing the feasibility of using metal detectors, though she acknowledged the logistics would be challenging.

The city has announced it will not issue permits for vendors until a comprehensive security plan is in place. Officials recognized that the Arts District is a public space with multiple entry points, making physical barriers difficult to install. Berkley stated the city wants to ensure attendees are not disruptive or dangerous. "There are so many ways to get into First Friday, it would probably be impossible to create barriers," she said.

The suspect in the shooting, a 17-year-old, is currently being held without bail and has been charged as an adult. In the interim, local shops and businesses are hosting an art crawl from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday near Main and Commerce streets to keep the community art scene active during the pause.